ESPRIT Volume 1• 2014 By Young Marines For Young Marines By Young Marines For Young Marines National Headquarters Staff National Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer Young Marines concluded a busy Michael Kessler and eventful year by National Deputy Director participating in Red Ribbon Joseph Venable Inspector General of the Young Marines Week activities, Veterans’ Week, Joseph Bles and honoring the Annviversary Director, Training & Education of the attacks on Pearl Harbor, Michael Guiles Training & Education Specialist Hawaii, as well as performing ser- Alvin Hendricks vice in their communities nation- Chief Marketing Officer Gary Weisbaum wide. Their stories fill this issue... Unit Marketing Manager Enjoy! Janelle Johnsen Drug Demand Reduction Resource Officer Joseph Lusignan Director of Administration and Database Management Judy Jones Director of Finance Mike Tracy Webmaster Service Tim Kupper, Xpert Media Management, LLC Young Marines ESPRIT Jaime Jasso Editor, Layout and Design Board of Directors Chairman of the Board - William Smith Vice Chairman of the Board - William J. Walker National Executive Director - Michael Kessler Invited Member - Gene Overstreet General Counsel - Herb Harmon Director of Finance - Michael Tracy Appointed Member - Loren Funk Appointed Member - William Barnes Appointed Member (Treasurer) - Robert Borka Appointed Member (Board Secretary) - Dina Dillon Appointed Member - Louis Johnson Deputy Director - Joseph Venable Marine Corps League Liaison - Dave Gardner Young Marines National Foundation Executive Director - Mike Zeliff Division Commanders David Cummins, Division One George Biedenbender, Division Two John Gionet, Division Three Douglas Champagne, Division Four Ron Pownall, Division Five Michael Wilson, Division Six Division Young Marines of the Year YM SgtMaj Pierce Gillman, Division One YM SgtMaj Dakota Richter, Division Two YM SgtMaj Austin Cobb, Division Three YM SgtMaj Shana Perez, Division Four YM SgtMaj Corin McKee, Division Five YM SgtMaj Ian Search, Division Six National Young Marine of the Year YM SgtMaj Dakota Richter

CLARIFICATION: An article published in Volume 4 of Esprit, Leadership Wisdom from a Leader- ship Descent, was inaccurately credited to a Tornado Alley (KS) registered adult. The credit should be given to Zoe Jackson, a Young Marine from the Colorado unit who also attended the event. We regret this error. ESPRIT | Page 1 • From our National Director Reviewing Our Mission, Our Work, and a Remarkable Past Year We wrapped up the calendar year with a wide variety of activities that kept us busy throughout the quarter. The centerpiece of our organization is our work in educating our members and our communities on the perils of uncontrolled and unauthorized drug use. Our mantra is to maintain a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. We understand that and we get it, but we have a mission to ensure that those who live with us in our communities understand that message as well, and by all accounts, you really stepped up and made that message loud and clear through your efforts during Red Ribbon week. Congratulations and thank you for spreading the word. A secondary role, one that we have assumed over the course of time, is our work with and for veterans. While we like to think that Veterans Day is every day, we tend to lean more heavily on those occasions that allow us the chance to interact with those who actually made history. The Navajo Code Talkers immediately come to mind along with the Iwo Jima Veterans and those who experienced the first days of our entry into World War II at Pearl Harbor. This past quarter we enjoyed a few sunny days in Hawaii, but more importantly was that we paid homage to those who gave everything on December 7th, 1941. The wreath laying at the Na- tional Cemetery of the Pacific and the parade through downtown Honolulu were truly an experience that I think most will remember for a long time. And pay close attention for the trip next year as we will offer a few amenities that we have not offered before. The point to this is that we are making a few changes to the magazine that we hope you will like. The first thing is that our brand will become more apparent. But the second thing is that we are discontinuing the idea of having themes. We have so many activities taking place each and every quarter that we felt as though we did not want to limit you to a specific subject. So, for example, if it’s June and you did some special for Flag Day, then tell us about it. On the other hand, if it’s May and you participated in Memorial Day events, tell us about those. Finally, we intend to turn the magazine around in a more timely manner so that you receive it sooner… and this means we will have to work harder to meet our printing deadlines. We are interested in what your thoughts are, so please don’t hesitate to let us know. Semper fi,

Mike Kessler

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Page 2 | ESPRIT • A Young Marine SgtMaj Who’s Also a Colonel Governor of Kentucky Bestows Honor to YMOY SgtMaj Dakota Richter awarded Personal Achievement awards, Question: Can a person be a YMS- gtMaj and a Colonel at the same time? Recruit Honor Graduate, Advanced Lead- ership School Honor Graduate and mul- Answer: Yes, if you’re Dakota Richter, 17, of Crestview Hills, Kentucky. tiple Perfect PFT awards. Richter has Last May, YM SgtMaj Richter was earned the Presidential Volunteer Service named the National Young Marine of Award (gold) and was named an honorary the Year, and on Oct. 14, 2013, she was U.S. Marine Rider. named a Colonel in the Honorable Or- “YM SgtMaj Richter is the personifica- der of Kentucky Colonels, at a ceremony tion of all that is good about the Young held in Hebron, KY. Marines,” said Michael Kessler, national The Honorable Order of Kentucky Col- executive director and CEO of the Young onels does not appoint or commission Marines. “She has demonstrated leader- Kentucky Colonels; rather, the appoint- ship, judgment and initiative, and she has ments are made by the sitting Governor been superb as our national representa- of the Commonwealth, and only the tive. Her passion as a mentor for the kids know, I’m very passionate about my state, Governor knows the reason for bestow- in the program really shines through.” and it’s remarkable to be recognized in ing the honor of a Colonel’s Commission As National Young Marine of the Year, such a unique, historical way.” on any particular individual. Richter is traveling throughout the coun- A Kentucky Colonel is unwavering in “Each time I have the pleasure of be- try representing the Young Marines, and his or her devotion to faith, family, fel- stowing a membership to this excep- she is a positive role model for the 10,000 low man and country; passionate about tional organization on an individual,” said youth members of the Young Marines. being compassionate; proud, yet humble; a recent Kentucky Governor, “the great “My Young Marines retirement will cer- a leader who is not ashamed to follow; tradition established by Kentucky’s first tainly be a bittersweet day, after all that and gentle but strong in will and com- governor, Isaac Shelby, lives on. The name the program has blessed me with,” Rich- mitment. Kentucky Colonel has become synony- ter said. “It comforts me to know that, Richter has such qualities in spades. mous with strength of character, leader- similar to my mentors, I’ll be able to give She has worked very hard and with great ship and dedication to the welfare of back to the program as an Adult Leader dedication, and she’s had a stellar trajec- others.” in future years.” tory with the Young Marines. She joined Some famous Colonels include Ashley Richter is on the varsity swim team at when she was 11 years old, and currently, Judd, Wayne Gretzky, Ronald Reagan, Bob Dixie Heights High School in Ft. Mitchell, she is in her final year as a member of the Hope, Bill Clinton, Betty White, Marie Os- KY, where she is a senior. One of her goals Northern Kentucky unit. mond, Mario Andretti, Norman Schwar- was realized recently when she heard she Last May, she received the Young Ma- zkopf, Omar Bradley, Roy Rogers, Shirley has been accepted to the Coast Guard rines’ highest honor: National Young Ma- Temple Black, Winston Churchill and of Academy. Another goal is to publish a rine of the Year. course, Colonel Harlan Sanders, founder bestselling novel. In addition, she has earned 42 ribbon of Kentucky Fried Chicken. “I am very proud of Dakota’s acceptance awards with the Young Marines program “It’s an absolute honor to be in such into the Coast Guard Academy, though as well as the Distinguished Order of company,” Richter said. “Certainly Ken- not at all surprised, Kessler said. “Next up, Merit, the DEA device for her Drug De- tucky Colonel is a title I’d never thought a best seller - another goal that I am con- mand Reduction ribbon, two nationally- I’d hold at 17. As most who meet me fident will be accomplished.”

National Young Marine Of the Year SgtMaj Dakota Richter with Mr. Hendricks and Mr. Huff, two of her most inspiring mentors, at the 2013 National Leadership Academy.

ESPRIT | Page 3 ------Creating a ------Solid Foundation for our Efforts By Joseph Lusignan tion, and one that captured attention be- It also has a leadership component Drug Demand Reduction cause of the “gross factor,” in truth, there where older Young Marines can be cer- Resource Officer have only been less than half a dozen tified as instructors and teach younger Young Marine National Headquarters cases of its use (that we know of) in the Young Marines. By utilizing this curricu- Creating a solid foundation. Regardless United States. lum, we satisfy the mandated drug de- of the painted walls, the pretty doors, the How many of our youth need to REALLY mand reduction hours that every Young decorated windows, the flowers planted worry about Krokodil, when most of them Marine must meet, as well as standardize out front, every building that is made to will be tempted by the Gateway drugs on the training that we offer our Young Ma- last, that is made to make a difference, a daily basis? Gateway drugs (tobacco, al- rines nationwide. Not teaching it yet? Go that is made protect…must have a solid cohol, inhalants, marijuana and prescrip- to www.projectalert.com and get started foundation. tion drugs) are the drugs that entice our now. And often, though something be more youth down a dangerous and unhealthy In the next several months, you are go- ornate, it’s not necessarily as strong… and path and are readily available in our ing to see the Young Marines step up if you’re going to build higher floors, the schools, our neighborhoods…and even in even more with our drug demand reduc- bottom better be sturdy. Such is the ef- our homes. After more than twenty years tion efforts and make new products and forts of leading a positive drug free life- as a law enforcement officer, I’ve NEVER information available to all of our units. style in the Young Marines. met a drug abuser that didn’t start with While we know that units are involved in Recently, I saw a picture on Facebook one or more of those five. many types of activities, there are ways of a very sharp-looking Young Marine, In order to be successful, our drug de- to carry our drug-free message outside of about 12 years old or so, with a chest full mand reduction efforts need to consoli- the classroom and into our everyday lives of ribbons. It was a picture of him giving date and focus on what will truly make a and activities. a presentation during Red Ribbon Week. difference in our country. For the last two When we are successful at this, and have But, when I looked at the poster that he years, Young Marine units teach the Proj- spread that message and that motivation was teaching from, it showed pictures of ect Alert curriculum. Does it cover every outside of our Young Marines program… the drug Krokodil, a drug that is known drug that is available worldwide? No, but then we will truly be making a difference for eating the flesh of the user. While this it builds the tools to be able to say no to in our nation. might have been an interesting presenta- WHATEVER drug is presented or offered. Starting the A YM Parent Writes... My daughter, YM LCpl Laree Osteen just say no. Conversation of the Orlando (FL) Devil Dogs unit, Many thanks to the leadership of the accepted a Proclamation from our Young Marines program for giving her By Aimee M. Fagan, Adult Volunteer hometown mayor, Jim Gearhart, along the support and courage to step out Blackstone Valley (MA) with all of city council including eight of her comfort zone and accomplish Blackstone Valley Young Marines took the surrounding cities. I was in awe as I so much. Red Ribbon Week Message out into the watched her give a thank you speech Sally Osteen, community and spoke to kids, parents and for their support of our program and Proud parent and Adult Staff grandparents about the importance of liv- the hard work everyone does for to ing a drug-free lifestyle and remembering the late DEA Agent Enrique Camarena and his sacrifice in the line of duty. The Young Marines spoke to many peo- ple at a local flag football event that was attended by more than 300 participants, and during that time, they had the op- portunity to speak to both the youths and their parents. It started the conversation in many of the families who stopped and heard the Red Ribbon Week Message.

Page 4 | ESPRIT Red Ribbon Week: A Quick Look

WHAT: An alcohol, tobacco and other drug and violence prevention awareness campaign. WHEN: Red Ribbon Week is observed annually in October, in memory ------of slain DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. - The red ribbon became a symbol for RED RIBBON efforts to reduce the demand of illegal drugs. WEEK Read more at www. redribbon.org A Red Ribbon Week Photo Gallery

Westover Young Marines were present at the Chicopee, MA Police Safety Complex for their annual expired medication/drug turn-in; expired medications are turned in to the Drug Enforce- ment Agency for proper disposal. Young Marines helped with crowd control and distributed red ribbons and information about Red Ribbon Week, and later were presented with a Proclamation from Chicopee Mayor Michael D. Bisonnette, as well as a Letter Senator Richard T. Moore of the Massachusetts State of Appreciation from the State Attorney General Martha Coakley Senate delivers a Senate resolution to the Blackstone Valley for their Red Ribbon Week efforts. Young Marines in support of Red Ribbon Week. -- Submitted by Edward Mitrook -- Submitted by Gary Eldredge

The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office Young Marines were invited to make a presentation to students at Gentilly Terrace Elementary School on October 28, 2013. The Young Marines spoke before a student body of approximately 450 Pre-K thru 6th graders. Young Marines from the General Raymond G. Davis Metro Atlanta Young Students are aquainted with Red Ribbon Week, Marines met with Georgia’s Governor, Nathan Deal, on September 10, 2013 and we explained how the Young Marines are in- to discuss Red Ribbon Week. Governor Deal presented the Young Marines volved. with a Red Ribbon Week Proclamation. -- Submitted by Alice B. Reed --Submitted by YM MSgt Gage Bennett ------

------ESPRIT | Page 5 Proud to be a part of Red Ribbon Week By YM SSgt Nicholas Cozzens Middle and High School so it gave me the had also told the group of Young Marines Swansboro (NC) opportunity to revisit them. I took part in that I was with that I used to be very shy Throughout Red presentations for third through fifth as in the classroom. She was surprised and Ribbon Week in well as sixth, and eighth grades. impressed at my public speaking ability. 2013, the Swansboro While all of these presentations used I think this particular event and others Young Marines took the same format each time, one in par- are a very important part of the commu- part in several activi- ticular stands out in my mind, the sixth nity services that Young Marines do to ties at local schools, graders at Swansboro Middle School. help people out. including Swansboro Partly because of the fact that it was Communities like Swansboro all across Elementary, Middle my biggest audience during Red Ribbon America, are the home to Young Marine and High Schools as Week, but also because my former sci- units small and large, and are typically well as Queens Creek ence teacher from the sixth grade said to the units’ source of resources. Elementary. me‚“Nicholas, you’ve really grown up.” In order to give back to our communi- I attended Queens While her remark could definitely have ties, we should be willing to do for others Our presentation Creek Elementary as been about my height, I knew it was as they have done for us. well as Swansboro about my level of responsibility even more so. After that presentation, she Westover: Encouragement from the Mayor By YM Pvt Mariclaire Smith Westover (MA) The Westover Young Marines celebrated Red Ribbon Week this year with Mayor Domenic J. Sarno of Springfield, Massa- chusetts on October 23, 2013. The Westo- ver Young Marines were notified that Mayor Sarno wanted to acknowledge them by recognizing their efforts in the annual Red Ribbon anti-drug campaign held in honor of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. The Westover Young Marines received an invitation to Mayor Sarno’s Springfield Mayor Sarno assists Westover Young Marines in observing Red Ribbon Week office at Springfield City Hall after school the importance of keeping his loss in the After each Young Marine took turns sit- to accept a Red Ribbon Week Proclama- forefront of our memories while living a ting in the Mayor’s chair and posed for a tion from the City of Springfield in Mas- drug-free life. photo with him, a remarkable exchange sachusetts. The Westover Young Marines gave a took place. Hoping to inspire them, the Both the Westover Young Marines and Red Ribbon and matching wristband to Mayor reassured them that they are on their parents were greeted warmly by Mr. Sarno after being presented with the the right path and are an influential ex- Mayor Sarno. Proclamation. The most inspirational mo- ample to all. Everyone in the room was Westover Young Marines Bass, Espinoza, ment of the visit was Mayor Sarno’s rec- touched by the positive mood, the good Rodriguez and Smith joined Mayor Sarno ognition of the commitment each Young news and a very genuine connection in a discussion about the origin of Red Marine makes at a time so challenging made that afternoon while remembering Ribbon Week, the continuing efforts to for today’s youth. Enrique Camarena. seek justice for Enrique Camarena, and Doing Something Good By YM Pvt Danielle Stokes bon Week. The students that I gave the Capital City (NC) items to were very excited, I told them I had an amazing time passing out the what the sayings meant, such as “A drug Red Ribbon Week materials we were fur- free me is a happy me”. I spoke with my nished (flyers, red ribbons, rubber brace- teachers and they also said I was doing lets, slap bracelets, drug awareness bro- something good. It felt good, but I feel chures). like I could have done more. All the peo- I passed the materials out to all my ple I gave things to wear the bracelets friends, teachers and my bus driver. and still talk about the books and things Out of my entire class I was the only and I cannot wait until next year’s Red one who even thought about Red Rib- Ribbon Week.

Page 6 | ESPRIT Two Presentations to Young Audiences By YM Cpl. Mark McCloskey the older kids, 4th thru 6th grade, which Chandler Mustangs (AZ) was the age I was thinking of. We recently received this note regarding Cpl McCloskey’s presentation: October was fast approaching and my I did my presentation and it went well. Unit Commander kept asking me about Even I learned all the different body or- I was thrilled when YM Cpl Mark Mc- doing a Drug Demand Reduction presen- gans affected by smoking. It’s not just the Closkey asked my permission to do his tation for Red Ribbon Week. A thought lungs that are affected, many other or- Drug Demand Reductipon presenta- came to my mind to try and do a presen- gans are involved, also. tion at our church. I was happy that he tation at my church. I met with my Pastor. I also asked my Youth Pastor if I could thought of us and that he believed his I asked him if I could do a presentation present a class about the dangers of message of living a drug-free lifestyle for the Sunday School group called Kid- smoking to our Youth Group. He thought was important enough to tell everyone Zone. KidZone is for preschoolers thru it was a great idea. around him, even those in his church. 6th grade. I told him I would focus on the So, that Sunday was a busy day for me, He did a great job representing the dangers of smoking. He thought giving a with a KidZone presentation in the morn- Young Marines, and we were proud to presentation to the elementary age kids ing and a Youth Group presentation in the have him speak. would be a great thing. evening. Dr. Jim Poit I also decided to speak to one of the I was a little nervous at the beginning of Senior Pastor, Children’s Ministry Leaders to make sure my presentation, but I think it’s important New Hope Comunnity Church, that she was okay with my idea. She liked that these kids know what smoking can Gilbert, AZ the idea of my doing a presentation, but do to you and your body, so they’ll never thought it would only be appropriate for start. Hitting the Road for Red Ribbon Week The Shenandoah Valley Young Marines spread out over 3 states and made appearances at City Council meetings, community events and did presentations in their own schools to commemorate Red Ribbon Week. Here are some highlight pictures. - Submitted by Gwynn Harrison

ESPRIT | Page 7 An Opportunity to Spread the Word By YM GySgt Dylan Strong device since (in my opinion ) it’s a more lamation we received cited the work our Natchaug River (CT) prestigious device to have. unit is doing fighting illicit drugs and Red I am always excited to participate in I would also like to earn the DEA Ribbon Week was recognized as a town- Drug Demand Reduction work not only streamer for my unit so we can put it on wide event. because I learn more about Red Ribbon our guidon. We spoke to multiple football teams, Week myself, but also because I enjoy the My unit started off this event when my and went into the schools during the day opportunity to spread the word about it, Unit Commander and I went to receive a to teach the students about Red Ribbon why we have it, and what it’s for. Proclamation at a town meeting, on Oc- Week and Drug Demand Reduction. I per- I enjoy teaching other people in our area tober 8th. sonally enjoy these events and having the reasons on why it is important not to It was quite an experience because I the opportunity to share my knowledge. abuse drugs or alcohol. I would like to have never been to a town meeting or re- receive the Drug Enforcement Agency ceived a Proclamation before. The Proc-

Following color guard for Red Ribbon Week at the Pentagon, Shenandoah Valley Young Marines pose with David Mineta, Deputy Director of Demand The Shenandoah Valley Young Marines partnered with Italian Delight Pizza in Reduction Office, and Jessica Wright, Acting Under Stephens City and Italian Touch in Middletown and Winchester by offering the Secretary of Defense for Personnel & Readiness. Red Ribbon pizza during Red Ribbon week to raise community awareness. He Drew A Poster for Red Ribbon Week By YM PVT Noah Esper Col Wesley Fox (VA) I entered the Red Ribbon Week photo contest through the National Family Partnership. I drew a poster of a red bridge connecting two places. Over the bridge is asked the question, “Which is better?” To one side of the bridge is a storm over a cemetery and to the other side of the bridge is a beautiful tent site. The official Red Ribbon for Red Ribbon Week ties these two places together under the bridge. The theme this year is “A Healthy Me Is Drug Free!” I am wearing my Young Marines t-shirt in the photo. I have asked my school to vote for me and I know my Young Marines friends are voting for me (it’s great to have friends like Young Marines). Noah Esper created this thoughtful Red Ribbon Week poster.

Our Young Marines were provided white T- shirts and asked to draw a design for Red Ribbon ...And We Designed Our Week. YM Sgts Ellie Trahern,Mollie Corino and PFC Gabrielle Ridenhour showed their artistic talents, and everyone was a winner. Red Ribbon Week Shirts Tony Guilory, Rogue Valley (OR)

Page 8 | ESPRIT A Look Back at Battlefield’s Adventurous Year By Battlefield (VA) rial in DC, assisted with veterans at the ball stadium. We enjoyed the game and Young Marines Sgt Reckless War Horse Hero Ceremony, after the game we camped out on the Battlefield Young Marines have had the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War outfield and watched fireworks and a quite an amazing and adventurous year. in DC, and the Molly Marine Dedication movie on the jumbotron. Thanks to Mr. Morehead, we had the at The National Museum of the Marine We had a terrific day at the Prince Wil- opportunity to build a space capsule Corps. We met veterans and celebrities liam County Police and Fire Training Fa- equipped with a weather balloon, GPS while volunteering at the GI Film Festi- cility. We got to experience the police transmitter, four HD cameras, and Sour road course, learned about police history, Patch Kids candy before sending the and explored the fire department’s four- weather balloon 20 miles into the atmo- story training facility. Our favorite event sphere. was meeting a K-9 with his police officer We had to see if candy tasted any dif- and visiting their training facility. ferent after being 20 miles in space. We Finally, Battlefield took to the skies with found it tasted the same (and we didn’t the EAA Chapter 1099 Young Eagles. We get sick). After launching the balloon had the opportunity to take the controls from The Plains, VA and six tedious hours while in flight and flew single-engine air- of searching, we were able to retrieve the planes over the Fredericksburg, VA area. project 20 miles west of Fredericksburg, Congratulations to all Battlefield Young VA in a wooded area (you can check out Marines for completing their Drug De- the weather balloon adventure along mand Reduction training for the year and with other adventures on the Battlefield val, and got really muddy participating in for clocking more than 1300 community Young Marines YouTube channel). the Run-Amuck. service hours. A number of our Young Ma- Our unit also participated in several Our very own PVT Melendez, surrounded rines have earned the Presidential Volun- encampments with Shenandoah and by our Young Marines in formation salut- teer Service Award. We look forward to Quantico units. We have assisted with the ing the American flag, sang the National another great year. WWII Honor Flights at the WWII Memo- Anthem at the Potomac Nationals base- A Family Goes the Distance for Young Marines

By Garry Patton, addition to his commitment to Adult Volunteer the Young Marines, Tyrique plays Upstate (SC) baseball and football, performs in When his son, Tyrique, ex- a jazz ensemble, and plays percus- pressed an interest in the armed sion in the marching band. forces, Daniel Green searched Both Daniel and Beverly Green online to research different av- serve as volunteer firefighters, and enues to acquiant his son with they donate time through his em- the military way of life. Once ployer’s partnership with the local Mr. Green discovered the core school district, serving as mentors values of the Young Marines, he for at-risk students. knew that he’d found the orga- Despite their hectic schedules, nization that he and his wife, the Greens don’t regret the com- Beverly, desired for their son’s mute. “After we met and got to introduction. know SgtMaj James Roberts and “What really got my attention realized how committed he was were the tenets of the Young without even having a kid of his Beverly, Tyrique and Daniel Green: A high level of committment. Marine Creed,” said Green recent- own in the program, we knew it ly at the Upstate Marine Ball held know how to deal with those situations. said something special about him, in Greenville, SC. “Obeying your parents, We like to think we’re investing in his fu- and that we’d made the right decision. being neat and clean at all times... I’m ture.“ We’ve been super impressed with the a big believer in the importance of how What makes the Greens’ investment involvement of not only SgtMaj Roberts, you present yourself. My wife and I have in Tyrique’s future unique is the level but of all the leaders and parents.” always wanted our kids exposed to or- to which they’ve committed. Because If they can ever take time from their ganizations that promote strong values. Greenville has the closest Young Marine busy agendas long enough to pause and We’ve seen firsthand situations in which unit to their hometown of Orangeburg, reflect, the Greens might just realize the good people make poor choices when South Carolina, they drive two hours one- feeling is mutual. they become adults, and we want to do way to attend drill. And it’s not as if the everything we can to prepare Tyrique to Greens didn’t already lead busy lives. In

ESPRIT | Page 9 Having fun at Encampments

Bravo Team plotting their first course. Morning Chow. Lapeer County Young Marines ready for Mission Scarecrow in full camo. A Land Nav Encampment Assists Pvt. Scarecrow My name is Kirk Meldrum and I am in the Lapeer Scarecrow to the medical center because he had a County Young Marines. This weekend, we had an en- broken leg. Sgt. Vascotto, our leader, made a tempo- campment. Upon arriving we picked up our gear and rary brace for his leg with a tree branch. We plotted hiked one mile to our camp which was already set up our next course to find an air package of MRE’s and except our tents which we had to set up. After that had a small feast. The final task of the mission was we ate and hit the racks. On Saturday, Mr. Ellsworth, to ambush Bravo Team. We stealthily approached our one of our staff members had set up an exciting map objective but we were surrounded! We dispersed in & compass mission. We were split up into two teams, every direction but we did not have the ammo (wa- Alpha and Bravo. I was a member of the Alpha squad. ter balls) that Bravo Team had and were overtaken. First we plotted our course and found ourselves at Overall it was an outstanding weekend and all of the a fork in the road. I saw a structure with a bell on it staff members did a fantastic job. and an abandoned church beyond. This led us to PVT PVT Kirk Meldrum Scarecrow (a stuffed mannequin) and an envelope Lapeer County (MI)Young Marines labeled TOP SECRET which directed us to take PVT

A Team Building Encampment

The Davidson County Young Ma- while holding the pipe together so rines participated in the 2nd Bat- we did not lose any water. Then we talion Encampment at UNC’s Char- had to put the water in a bucket that lotte Campus Venture Program. had ropes tied to it and walk down The encampment took place on two logs keeping the bucket level so September 27th through 29th. The we didn’t spill the water. Everyone weekend was filled with team build- had to work together, pay attention ing events. There were several chal- to our leader and do our part to lenge courses, low and high rope make it a success. courses, trust fall and the wall. Saturday evening we had a drill On Saturday, we divided up into competition, it was the first compe- three groups of the challenge tition for most of our unit. We came courses. In all of the events, we had in 2nd place. Our drill competition to use everyone on the team. One team was composed of Young Ma- of the challenges was to get water rines from three of the units pres- to a village that was stranded after ent. an earthquake. We had to figure out -- LCpl Anna Hurley how to build a pipeline with pipe Davidson County (TN) Young Marines that was cut in half. We had to walk on logs and not touch the ground

Page 10 | ESPRIT Miami-Dade: Giving to Those Who Have Nothing

By Sgt. Austin Gordillo of-war contest, encouraging them to PFC Bruce W. Carter of Miami-Dade (FL) put all of their effort into this event, and For 9 years, I have been a proud mem- remind them that win or lose, everyone ber of Operation Christmas Child, an or- is a winner because you participated. ganization that operates all year, run en- The Young Marines of Miami-Dade also tirely by volunteers. This organization is mentored the sand-sculpting contest, a Christian, faith-based ministry. assisted in counting the donated san- We conduct events all year long to col- dals, and helped in all aspects of the lect items to go into shoeboxes to be days’ events. sent to orphaned children living in ex- Being a member of both the Young treme poverty all over the world. In ad- Marines of Miami Dade and Operation dition to being a member of Operation Christmas Child is a very rewarding and Christmas Child, I am very active in the humbling experience. Each activity I Young Marines of Miami-Dade where I participate in is humbling and allows (Above): Just a few of the many pairs of sandals am a Corporal. me the opportunity to remember who I collected during the Surfing for Sandals event. am‚ a proud citizen of the United States (Below): Young Marines assisted in conducting of America and a very fortunate young games, contests and organizational duties and man to be living in this country where activities throughout the day. I am free to be a part of organizations like these.

Both of these organizations motivate me to be thankful for all that I have, and all that has been given to me. On Saturday, August 24, 2013, there was an event hosted by the Gordillo family called Surf- ing for Sandals. The purpose of this event is to collect as many sandals as possible in one day. The Young Marines of Miami-Dade were in charge of running the event from set up to break down. The day consisted of collecting donated sandals. There were a variety of games for participants to play, and a sand-sculpting contest. I personal- ly mentored the participants of the tug-

ESPRIT | Page 11 The Program and Instructors Have Helped Me By YM GySgt Dylan Strong Marine and immediately started working Natchaug River (CT) closely with all of us. As the years pro- I joined this program on October 17th, gressed, he helped me as much as he 2006, and ever since that day this pro- could. gram has impacted me in a very positive Whether it was working on the PFT with way. It has taught me respect, integrity, me so I could pass, helping me sign off on teamwork, leadership, why to stay away my guidebook, working towards my next from drugs and more. rank, or even on a personal level. Within I’ve had travel opportunities and seen the last few years, he has taken over as so much of the world that I never would the Unit Commander and I, along with have without the Young Marines program. other higher-ranking Young Marines and Through the program I’ve met a lot of registered adults, help him run our unit. good friends, both adults and kids, but I cannot express how much I appreci- there is one registered adult who has ate having Unit Commander Couture to Joseph Couture and Dylan Strong. impacted me the most in the program, help me through the program. He has Natchaug River Unit Commander Joseph done such a great job and has impacted Over all, I’m glad I met this great man, Couture. my journey in the Young Marine program happy I decided to join the program, and He came on the drill deck as the train- so much that I am unable to express my proud to call myself a Young Marine. ing officer shortly after I became a Young gratitude in words. The Military Order of World Wars Conference By YM LCpl. Alex Peterson conference entertained when we had ing the Vietnam War. He kept everyone’s and YM Sgt Jonah Geligoff down time. The first day we were in attention for more than two hours. Last June we traveled to Annapolis, charge of hosting the ice cream social. This program was a good use of our MD to take part in the Military Order of When a scheduled event was canceled, time. While some parts of it did not al- World Wars Youth Leadership Conference the Entertainment Team held a party in- ways apply to everyone there, most of (MOWW). We and two others from Ken- stead. us took away knowledge that helped us tucky represented the Young Marines. We attended classroom lectures each day become better leaders and all-around We were separated into our selected on ethics, morals, and various other relat- Americans. Although most of the speak- teams depending on interests. Sgt Geli- ed topics. All of the people who spoke to ers there were connected to the military, goff signed up for Flag Detail while LCpl us were either active duty or retired from this program was oriented more toward Peterson signed up for the Entertainment the military. civilians and encouraged us to become team. Each team was assigned a mentor Two presentations were noteworthy. The more well-rounded citizens of this great whose common goal was teaching us first one was an interactive presentation country. useful skills. by an Air Force Sergeant about protecting The Flag Detail was in charge of rais- yourself on the internet from hackers and ing and lowering the National and State phishers. Learn More About MOWW: colors everyday. The second memorable presentation www.militaryorder.net The Entertainment Team was in charge was by an Air Force Colonel. He discussed of keeping the rest of the people at the his experiences as a prisoner of war dur- Something Called “The Knockout Game” By Joseph Bles, tempt to knock them out with one blow, ational awareness.” Young Marines Inspector General and after doing so, run way laughing. This All that means is be aware and vigilant First of all, this is no game. disgusting behavior has resulted in two of your setting. Here’s a good tip, take It is a cowardly activity where several people dying as a result of it. the Traffic Safety Administration’s advice, really terrible people sneak up on an un- No one is certain if there will be more “When you see something, say some- suspecting (usually elderly) adult and at- cases but the best thing to do is use “situ- thing.” You Can Prevent the Misuse of Prescription Drugs By Joseph Bles This is so dangerous that the end result unused prescription medications, don’t For a long time, we’ve been aware of can be (and often is) death. flush or put them in the trash. the danger in the misuse of prescription Recently, ABC Nightly News reported that Instead, contact law enforcement or drugs. In most cases, these are left over the number of deaths from misuse of pre- medical authorities. Then arrange for medicines in pill form just lying around scription drugs has exceeded the number turn in so they can be properly disposed, bathrooms or medicine cabinets. They are of deaths by automobile accidents. Both and not harm the environment. taken mixed with other pills then swal- highway and misuse of prescription drugs lowed just to see what happens. deaths can be prevented. In case you find

Page 12 | ESPRIT • Checking In: Reports from our Young Marines Units Greater Cleveland Young Marines at- around toughness, strength, stamina, fit- tended the Cleveland Cavaliers’ season ness and mental willpower. opening game. The arena was packed Finally, the Young Marines of Albany with ten thousand basketballl fans and participated in CPR training on Satur- four of the senior Young Marines (SSgt day, November 23, 2013. Fifteen Young Michael Dulin , SSgt Mason Downing, Cpl Marines participated and became CPR Alfredo Mercedes, and Cpl Annnie Kamp- certified. The training was conducted by man ) participated in a color guard. We the Marine Corps Base Fire Department. enjoyed the cool privileges of being on The course was held for Young Marines the court and being seen on TV. ages 12 and up. Young Marines learned -- Submitted by YM Cpl Alfredo Mercedes the correct techniques and skills to help Greater Cleveland (OH) others in the event of an emergency. In The Trinity Valley (TX) Young Marines The Albany (GA) Exchange addition, the staff renewed their certifi- were honored when a Life Scout from Club Fair was held Novem- cation as well. We thank our instructors, Troop 390, Terrell, Texas asked if we ber 5-10, 2013. For the past Roger Hall and Sean Edmondson, for tak- would help him in the community service three years, Karen Hartman ing the time to teach the course. part of earning his Eagle Scout Rank. (Battalion Adjutant), has -- Submitted by Nataniel Lowman set up a booth display- Young Marines of Albany (GA) ing information about the Blackstone Valley Young Marines were Young Marines program. asked to assist at the 1st Battalion 25th This year, Ms. Hartman Marine Corps Ball. Young Marines passed placed second for the out ball favors to more than 800 guests Young Marines exhibit. at the outset of the evening’s festivities. Albany Young Marines The guest of honor was Gen John F. Kelly, also volunteered to help USMC. Gen Kelly is a native of Boston and out with the Annual Dirty Devil Dog Mud is currently the Commander of the U.S. Run. When helping out, the Young Ma- Southern Command. General Kelly was Trinity Valley: Using teamwork to get rines pass out water, help with Toys for kind enough to take a few moments to the job done on a drill day. Tots and pick up trash. meet and speak with our Young Marines. The Mud Run introduces members of -- Submitted by Aimee M Fagan His project was to build a room inside the community to a Marine Corps- style Blackstone Valley (MA) the building of the Terrell Volunteer Fire course run, complete with obstacles, chal- Department to provide the Department lenges and plenty of mud. Runners can with a place to store equipment. expect to negotiate tires, ropes and other The Young Marines worked 7 hours on a obstacles while they run, jump, crawl, drill day helping to build the walls. climb, slog or slide through the mud. --Submitted by Christine Hall The Mud race tests the runner’s all- Trinity Valley (TX) Where Are They Going? Where Are they Now? Former YM GySgt Chris Crowley was the training. He recently returned from four ber 14, 2012 as a Private First Class, third Senior Young Marine at Battlefield (VA) months in Cuba and is now back at Camp generation Marine. until he graduated from high school. Dur- Allen, training for deployment sometime Throughout the ing his senior year, he was in the USMC after the first of the year. first phase of boot Delayed Entry Program. He graduated in I have a lot of respect for my big brother, camp, he held the June 2012 and was off to Parris Island on USMC LCpl Chris Crowley, and I really position of Platoon the ninth day of July. He endured many look up to him for his service to our great Guide. Some of our hours of training. country. Our family will miss him during Young Marines trav- At the end of his his deployment, but we know he will have eled out to MCRD to training at Parris many great stories to share with us when watch Melvin grad- Island, he was se- he returns. The Battlefield unit looks for- uate. lected for Security ward to his visiting our unit and spending Melvin is currently Forces. From Par- time with us until he is deployed. stationed at Marine Corps Base, Kanehoe ris Island, he spent -- Submitted by YM SSgt Kevin Crowley Bay HI, and was promoted to Lance Cor- a few months at Battlefield (VA) poral in June of 2013. Melvin has pos- Camp Geiger. From Former Young Marines MSgt Melvin sible plans to go to Coach school where there he was sent Hall IV shipped off to MCRD San Diego he will help train and coach on the rifle to Chesapeake, on September 17, 2012. He graduated ranges. -- Submitted by Christine Hall then he went to Camp Allen for more from Marine Corps Boot Camp on Decem- Trinity Valley (TX)

ESPRIT | Page 13 Pearl Harbor: Young Marines Honor its Veterans 67 Young Marines take part in Pearl Harbor commemoration. Although the attack on Pearl Harbor took place 72 years ago, 67 Young Ma- rines experienced powerful emotions when they traveled to Hawaii for the 72nd Pearl Harbor Day Commemora- tion. In addition, 27 adult volunteers accompanied the youth members. “Many Young Marines met survivors of that historic event in 1941,” said Mi- chael Kessler, national executive di- rector and CEO of the Young Marines. “Those veterans are, in every sense of the words - living history, and each has a story to tell. It was an honor to attend an event that commemorated a significant turning point in our na- tion’s history.” “We are very proud of the Young Ma- rines and consider them a crucial part of our events each year,” said Earl Hur- rey, Pearl Harbor Parade committee member and retired member of “The President’s Own,” the United States Marine Band. Every Young Marine who participated The participating Young Marines units: Upon arrival in Hawaii on Thursday, was aware of the staggering numbers: 12 • Quantico – Division 2 - Old Dominion December 5, the Young Marines gath- ships destroyed; 2,402 Americans killed; Regiment, MCB Quantico, VA ered at the Marine Corps Air Station and 1,282 wounded in the unprovoked • Hamilton - Division 2 - Maryland in Kaneohe Bay and spent many hours surprise attack. Regiment, MD cleaning up a beach as a community “To be able to meet the veterans that • Upper Marlboro - Division 2 – Maryland service project. were here was really a humbling oppor- Regiment, MD On Friday, December 6, youth mem- tunity,” said YM MSgt Oscar Pinate, 17, of • Southeast County – Division 6 – California bers of the Young Marines performed the PFC Bruce W. Carter Young Marines in Regiment, Seal Beach, CA a solemn wreath laying ceremony at Miami, Florida. “These veterans are slowly • Northern KY – Division 2 – KY (the unit of the National Memorial Cemetery of passing away, so soon there won’t be any Dakota Richter, the current National Young the Pacific, Honolulu, in memory of left.” Marine of the Year) the brave men and women who are The Young Marines units raised funds at • Columbia River – Division 6 – North West interred there. their local level to supplement the costs Regiment, Kennewick , WA And the next day, Saturday, Decem- of traveling to Hawaii to attend the com- • Pyramid Rock – Division 6 – MCB Kaneohe ber 7, the Young Marines led the Pearl memoration ceremonies. Bay, HI Harbor Memorial Parade in Hono- The Young Marines used their creativ- • PFC Bruce W. Carter – Division 3 - 1st lulu. They carried the banners of the ity, and applied the program’s core values Florida Regiment, Margate, FL twelve capital ships that were at- - leadership, teamwork and discipline - to “The Young Marines don’t all want to go tacked. The parade’s objective was implement unique and effective fundrais- into the military,” Kessler said, “but the con- to honor the heroes and survivors of ing efforts. fidence they’ve gained by virtue of their Pearl Harbor and World War II; to pay “When the opportunity to travel to Ha- time with the Young Marines is clearly tribute to veterans, active duty mili- waii arose, the members of the Young Ma- something that will set a path for them for tary members and military families; rines started moving mountains in their the future.” to celebrate freedom; and to keep in fundraising efforts,” Kessler said. “The re- remembrance the heinous events of sult is a testament to the dedication of December 7, 1941. these young people.” Page 14 | ESPRIT Pearl Harbor: Young Marines Honor its Veterans

(Above): Young Marines color guard members (left to right) Joseph DiGiovanni, Storme DiGiovanni, Brock Lathrop and Richard Deuto.

(Above): Participating in a beach clean up in Kanehoe Bay at the Marine Corps Air Station.

(Left): YM MSgt Oscar Pinate (left) and YM LCpl Albert Villalobos (right).

(Right): YM Sgt Devin Simkins meets a Pearl Harbor veteran.

(Left): Young Marines march in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Hololulu on Saturday, December 7, 2013.

ESPRIT | Page 15 December 7, 2013: A day of remembrance.

Columbia River: Our New Friend, a Veteran Named “Al”

By Alores Villanueva ranks of our unit in the first row during http://tapsbugler.com/allen-bodenlos- Columbia River (WA) the movie. What an honor! bugle-master-pearl-harbor-survivor/ Columbia River Young Marines spent the After we returned from the Arizona, he What a blessing for the Young Marines morning of December 4, 2013 touring the graciously agreed to take a group picture of Columbia River to have met this bugle Pearl Harbor Visitors Center. with us - as he had done in 2011, the last master, be able to chat with him, share As we gathered to enter the theater to time Columbia River attended Pearl Har- time with him and bridge the gap to his- see the short movie about the attack of bor Day. tory with him. December 7, 1941 and prior to taking the Al shared the morning with us and our boat ride out to the USS Arizona, we were time on the Arizona was made even more joined by a Pearl Harbor Survivor who in- special because of him. An outgoing but troduced himself as “Al”. humble man, he didn’t volunteer any in- Al told us he visits Pearl Harbor and the formation about himself or what he went USS Arizona Memorial twice a year - on through the day of the attack. Memorial Day and in the week leading After returning from Hawaii, I was able up to Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. to find a story about our new friend, Allen As luck would have it, Al sat within the Bodenlos, on TapsBugler.com. The link: A Ceremony Pays Respects to the Fallen at Pearl Harbor By YM Sgt Devin Simkins surrendered, ending ers on Iwo Jima, was laid to rest. Young Marines of Grand Rapids (MI) the war. This was a On December 7, the Young Marines par- My trip to Hawaii was a blast. I had the very unique experi- ticipated in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Pa- pleasure to listen to a Pearl Harbor sur- ence to stand on the rade and we were the banner carriers for vivor tell of his experience during the at- decks of history. the ships that were attacked. tacks on Pearl Harbor and we visited the On December 6, we It was a very big honor to carry the banner USS Arizona Memorial. We took the flowers went to The Nation- for the USS Pennsylvania. It was a very hum- from our leis and placed them in the water al Memorial Cem- bling experience to see everyone atend to to honor the fallen heroes. etery of the Pacific. pay respects to the veterans of the attacks After we visited the memorial, we went on The Young Marines performed a wreath on Pearl Harbor. The evening ended with the decks of the USS Missouri, also known laying ceremony to pay respect to the fall- dinner in the park with music provided by as “Mighty Mo”. We saw the its big 16-inch en. This cemetery is where USMC Sgt Henry the United States Marine Corps Band of the guns and I stood on the spot where Japan Oliver Hansen, one of the original flag rais- Pacific.

Page 16 | ESPRIT An Inspiring Trip to Pearl Harbor, One I’ll Never Forget

YM Cpl Caleb Walker I stopped to books titled War in Oregon Cascade talk to him and the Pacific. During September of 2013, my father learned that I bought a copy and I went to Pearl Harbor. I was aston- he was retired and BGen Hagen ished by what I saw, including the more USMC Brigadier signed it “To: Ca- than 70 years old colossal ships towering General Jerome leb, ‘Young Marine’; above me, like the USS Missouri. T. Hagen. This is the way We visited the Museum, watched a mov- We talked for the Pacific War re- ie on the Pearl Harbor attack, and took a a long time ally was. We must boat to visit the USS Arizona monument and he shared never forget. Con- with many other people. with me how gratulations on The USS Arizona visit was an emotional he joined the your participation experience that made me feel like I had Marine Corps in in the Young Ma- a connection with each of the people on 1952, served in rines. Stick with it. the boat. Korea, and as a Semper Fidelis, Je- Drill Instructor, rome T. Hagen BGe- The visit made me feel like I and then later nUSMC (Ret)”. had a connection with each as an officer I read his book during the Viet- and it is amazing. of the people on the boat. nam War, where It was such an in- he flew 483 spiring day, being The monument was white, with names missions in an able to visit Pearl of people who died during the attack and A4 Skyhawk. Harbor and then flowers to honor them. Oil still leaks from After his retire- talking with BGen the hull of the USS Arizona. ment from the Caleb Walker and Pacific War historian and Hagen. This was a In the gift shop, I saw an older gentleman Marine Corps he author BGen Jerome T. HAgen, USMC (Ret) life experience that I sitting at a booth with a stack of books. wrote a series of will never forget.

Hawaii - A Hui Hou Kakou (Until We Meet Again)

By YM SgtMaj Keon Burton We also attended a retirement ceremony Quantico (VA) for YM SgtMaj Storme DiGiovanni of the As December approached, my excite- Pyramid Rock Young Marines and a cook- ment started to build and build as I pre- out at the DiGiovanni’s home. pared to participate in the Pearl Harbor After our obligations, Mr. Michael Guiles Anniversary events with Young Marines from Headquaters gave us orders to ex- from all over. plore the island (and I take orders very I was ready to pack up, well). leave the mainland (as The Quantico Young Marines headed out Hawaiians call it) and for fun. We took a ride along the north head to the Great State shores, stopping along the way at several of Hawaii. beaches to swim, surf, learn about the This was my third trip culture and soak up some sun. We visited to Hawaii and taking historical sites, Turtle Beach, sampled lo- part in the activities; cal foods, canvased the area to immerse visiting the Punchbowl ourselves in Hawaiian art, music, and lit- and the Pearl Harbor erature, walked along the shoreline, and site, exploring the is- met a few interested people. We even saw land and speaking a few celebrities (from Hawaii Five-O). with the survivors. Yet, These activities are what I love most it’s always a new and units or titles; we are brothers and about this program; it continues to open different ‘Ike’ (experi- sisters. doors for youths and constantly offers ence). I learn something new, I see things The beauty of the Island is breathtak- positive influences on its members. I will in an altered light, and the stories always ing. The Young Marines participated in a forever cherish memories of the Pearl amaze me. wreath laying ceremony, toured the USS Harbor Anniversary events. Seeing my Young Marines friends from Arizona Memorial, and marched in the So Hawaii, I say Aloha ‘oe (farewell to across the states is like having a fam- Pearl Harbor Parade. you) and I’ll see you next year! ily reunion. We are no longer labeled by ESPRIT | Page 17 Y O U N G M A R I N E S : DDoingoing ggreatreat WWorkork inin oourur CCommunitiesommunities Running a Marathon: I Pushed On! By YM LCpl Caleb Wilson months to prepare for this distance. The Cherry Point (NC) night before the marathon, I received the This year (at 12 years of age) I ran the Ma- “Spiritus Invictus” award (which means un- rine Corp Marathon in Washington D.C. as conquerable spirit) from the MARSOC Foun- part of the Marine Corps Forces Special Op- dation for my fundraising efforts and desire erations Command (MARSOC) Foundation to participate even after being turned away Team after raising two thousand dollars originally. for the Foundation. MARSOC Foundation Running the marathon hurt a lot, but I supports active duty and medically retired pushed on to the finish. I went to school MARSOC personnel and their families, as the next day limping because my muscles well as the families of Marines who have were very sore, but I was happy to be wear- lost their lives in service to our Nation. ing my marathon shirt. When I applied for the Marine Corp Mara- My advice to all you Young Marines: Push thon I was originally told I could not run on, pain is not a reason to quit. Each and because I was two years under the age everyone, set expectations for yourself high limit. After a few email messages, I was al- and push on to meet them; Don‘t quit, ever! lowed to run the race with my Dad. A mara- Editor’s note: LCpl Wilson raised $2,000 for thon covers a distance of 26.2 miles, so it is the MARSOC Foundation. not a normal PFT run. I trained for several Caleb Wilson: An unconquerable spirit. Toys for Tots: Blackstone Valley Did its Homework By Aimee M. Fagan, Adult Volunteer They did not disappoint, and actually that would take it. So the Marine and his Blackstone Valley (MA) surprised some Toys for Tots organizers buddies set out on a mission. That first Thanksgiving Weekend kicked off our with their knowledge of the program. year they collected five thousand toys Toys for Tots Drive. In preparation for They were able to share that the program to distribute to needy families. In 2011, several service events, our Young Marines began in 1947 in California when a Ma- more than 15 million toys were distrib- were given a homework assignment - rine Reservist’s wife wanted to donate a uted to children. We expect 2013 to be an they needed to find out as much as they Raggedy Ann doll as a Christmas gift for a even bigger year. could about Toys for Tots. needy child and could not find any place Stuffing the bus and Helping Our Community By YM Clayton Sauberan marching around. It is really fun. At our The people operatying the fair say we Astabula County (OH) last event, we got more than half of the really help them out, plus it is a great Every year my unit does a fund raiser bus full. time for PT (some of the boxes are really called Stuff the Bus. During Stuff the We also attend a small indoor fair which heavy). All in all, it is a really fun commu- Bus we bring items to donate to less sells clothes. We take the items put them nity service project. fortunate kids and after that, we try to in bags or boxes and carry them out to get more people in by holding signs and the cars. It’s really fun, but it is hard work.

Albany: Serving at Thanksgiving The Young Marines of Albany (GA) volunteered to help the local Police Department with their Third Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. This year the event was held on Tuesday, November 26, 2013. Young Marines SSgt Alexis Baisden, SSgt Joshua Crawford and PVT Malik Peoples and staff members helped serve more than 750 meals.

Page 18 | ESPRIT Mecklenburg County: A Busy Month of Service By YM LCpl Daolai Chanthirat Mecklenburg County (NC) The month of November was the busiest month for our unit. We did a lot of community services for the community and our veterans. These ser- vices include cleaning up our community rivers and streams, lots of color guard duties and hon- oring our veterans at a local Veterans Day Parade.

From cleaning up to providing color guard, the Mecklenburg County Young Marines keep busy serving their community. Battlefield Assists Semper Fi Fund Program By YM SSgt Kevin Crowley America. We thank everyone of these vet- We also got to visit Young Marines from Battlefield (VA) erans for their sacrifice and dedication to Col Wesley Fox, Geiger, Manassas and Battlefield Young Marines joined our great country. Bull Run units. This was our third year hundreds of volunteers on Sunday, 24 We enjoyed having MajGen James Kes- participating in this great event. We set November 2013 to help package 10,700 sler, USMC (Ret) and his wife join us at another record this year in the amount Purple Heart Christmas ornaments. Once our table during the packing process. of time it took to package the 10,700 or- packaged, the ornaments are mailed to Our Young Marines enjoyed talking with naments. Each year gets better. We can’t USMC Purple Heart recipients across them. wait for next year. We Provided An All-Female Color Guard YM GySgt Allyson Fagga and LCpl Lores- for the 75th Anniversary of the National sah Clemons of Shenandoah Valley Young Foundation for Women Legislators. Marines, YM SSgt Meghan Jones of Manas- -- Submitted by Gwynn Harrison sas and YM Lauren Loria of Col Wesley Fox Shenandoah Valley (VA) Young Marines provided an all-female Col- or Guard at the Ritz Carlton Pentagon City Foothills: Involved in Our Local Festival For Years

By Stacy Anderson Foothills (CO) Our unit has been a part of the Estes Park Highlands Festival for many years. Our color guard takes part in the eve- ning Tattoo, opening ceremonies, the Parade in downtown Estes and closing ceremonies. We also have a booth at the festival that offered information about the Young Marines program and face painting for the kids.

ESPRIT | Page 19 Shenandoah Valley (VA) Young Marines participate in the Young Eagles Program. Pilots donated their time, plane and fuel to expose the Young Marines to aviation, free of charge, on Oct. 5, 2013 at the Win- chester (VA) Regional Airport. -- Submitted by Gwynn Harrison Shenandoah Valley (VA) Pensacola Conducts a Flag Retiring Ceremony By YM LCpl Nicholas Morrell one of our staff members, talking about By the end of the ceremony, the Young Pensacola (FL) what the flag represents to the American Marines of Pensacola retired 248 flags. On November 16th, 2013, the Young people. We learned a lot from this event, such as Marines of Pensacola held a flag retiring Then GySgt Belanger, our Unit Com- why this flag should be honored and how ceremony at the VFW in Elberta, AL. mander, and Mr. George, our Executive it honors the men and women who have We had a flag history class and then we Officer, participated with our unit’s 13 served and sacrificed for our country. practiced folding flags. Young Marines in burning the flags while The ceremony began with Ms. Karen, rendering an honorable hand salute.

Indiana: Cleaning up After a Tornado

By Cpl Mariah Henk more determined to help this town. It Speedway (IN) was hard work, but seeing the progress Many parts of Indiana were hit by nat- motivated me even more. Many mem- ural disaster in November. I was lucky, bers of my community pitched in, and but a neighboring town was not. When donated what they could. If it wasn’t for I heard the news, I wanted to help. So, all the local support, this town would the next morning I took a day off school still be in ruins. I’m thankful to be part to help clean up. Seeing the wreckage of these recovery efforts. broke my heart, but that only made me Speedway: We’re Making a Big Impact in a Small Town By David Hulett, public libraries and Marine Corps League small town in which we drill. His hope Unit Commander detachments. We have made friends and is to expand this activity to many more Speedway (IN) partners in the area’s veterans assistance towns and communities. Our unit started in January of 2013. community. It was nice when people in town asked Three Young Marines turned to eight, We have an inner unit competition to us what we were doing, we said simply, then to twelve and now twenty four. Our see who can log the most individual “We want to help”. first Community Service was on March hours and eight of our Young Marines Being a Unit Commander is rewarding, 11th and since then, we have logged have performed more than 100 hours but seeing your Young Marines act like almost 3200 hours of Community Ser- of service in eight months. One of our responsible, caring young adults is espe- vice as a unit. Our Young Marines have Young Marines even organized a Satur- cially rewarding. I’m looking forward to helped with projects at churches, animal day “Street Sweep” in which the Young many more years with these wonderful shelters, food pantries, veterans hospitals, Marines picked up debris and trash in the kids. Oxon Hill: Helping Provide Access to Healthy Food By YM Cpl. Nigel Gollman thousands of pounds of food a month but at the end of it all, Oxon Hill (MD) throughout the region. Our unit supports I feel good because The Share Food Program mission is to their efforts by going to one of the Share I know that we have promote healthy living and stronger com- warehouses to package potatoes from been part of an effort munities through affordable wholesome 100 Lbs. bags to individual 3 lbs. bags. to help someone in our food. Through the efforts of our volun- They are taken to local distribution cen- community to have ac- teers and the support of our commu- ters for completing share packages for cess to wholesome food nity, the Share Food Program distributes sales at reduced cost through the com- and healthy living. munity. The potatoes are cold to handle,

Page 20 | ESPRIT Helping Others in Need Can Be Just As Rewarding

By YM SSgt Nicholas Cozzens male breast cancer. She said that I would Swansboro (NC)) need to wear womens’ heels and walk A big part of what we do as Young laps. At first I wasn’t sure, but the more Marines is helping our communities. We I thought about it, the more I realized all know that we have to raise funds what a good cause it was. within our communities in order to oper- On November 3, 2013, I participated ate our units. But what about helping in the 3rd Annual “Fill Her Shoes” walk out other deserving non-profit organiza- for a cure, sponsored by the Leather and tions? Giving of our time and talents is Lace Motorcyle Club in Jacksonville, NC. always helpful, but working hard to raise It was hard to find heels to fit my (size money on behalf of others in need can 13) feet, but my neighbor’s husband be just as rewarding. participated too, and lent me the ones Recently, one of my mom’s friends that he used. I had a blast and even ran asked me if I would be interested in par- 2 laps in those 3-inch heels. Maybe next ticipating in a fundraiser for the Johns year I can help get a team of Young Ma- Hopkins Cancer Center that focuses on rines to participate in this worthy cause!

Palm Beaches Young Marines were a part of the National Football League’s first ever human flag at Miami’s Sun Life Stadium Where Are Your Opportunities to Promote Us? By YM Sgt Randall B. Townsend can best represent our unit and program. the waiting list to post colors at a future Palm Beaches (FL) In this case, we became 3 of more than game and are now also on their list of On September 22, 2013, a special invita- one thousand people to form the Ameri- organizations to serve in the community tion went out to season ticket holders for can flag on the football field during the in partnership with them. the Miami Dolphins to participate in cre- playing of the National Anthem at open- Every unit probably has an opportunity ating the NFL’s first ever human flag. As ing ceremonies. to make their community aware of the luck would have it, the Palm Beaches unit It is absolutely amazing how a 2 hour Young Marines, and may not know it. Op- has some close friends that hold season practice run the day before could be so portunities present themselves in many tickets for the Miami Dolphins and the successful, as you can see from the photo. ways. Keep your mind open, vision broad invitation was passed on to three of our We also had an opportunity to speak with and remain alert and you will find many very own members to participate in the the organization’s community relations ways to introduce Young Marines to the event. director in order to promote our program world so that we are no longer “The best Palm Beaches always looks at each lo- and its ideals. kept secret”, but rather a program full of cal event and invitation to see how we As a result, we have been placed on great opportunities for America’s Youth.

ESPRIT | Page 21 Veterans Week 2013 Serving at Veterans Day Honors at Arlington By YM SgtMaj Alex Loria Medal of Honor Society’s flag with me as As the afternoon Col Wesley Fox (VA) we lead the other veterans’ organizations went on, the wind On Veterans weekend 2013, I had the through the crowd, to the front of the am- continued to pick opportunity to lead the flag procession phitheater. While they lined up along the up. The event was and carry the American flag for a veterans amphitheater walls, we went on stage to a dedication to ceremony in Arlington National Cemetery. post the Colors and sit for the ceremony. General Pershing’s President Obama was there, along with We were about 15 feet from the Presi- life and career, and other government officials, officers, Med- dent. I was closest to Mrs. Obama, and there were rep- al of Honor she smiled at me as I sat for the presen- resentatives from recipients, and tation. most of the allied others who After the ceremony, we were invited to countries present gave speech- the reception with the Medal of Honor who participated es honoring Society. We were able to meet several in a wreath laying veterans. An Medal of Honor recipients including the ceremony. Honor Flights President of the Society, Mr. Harold Fritz. It was a great Veteran was Following lunch, we attended a cer- privilege to hon- recognized emony at General John J. Pershing’s grave or the men and who is more than 100 years old! Another site, and LCpl Villatoro and I were asked women who have Young Marine (LCpl Villatoro) carried the to stand and hold the flags. served us. Chicago’s Own Honors Some Hidden Veterans By YM Cpl Christopher Repa entered into the hall they saw our Color Each veteran was presented Chicago’s Own (IL) Guard and all of us in uniform, they smiled a certificate of appreciation During Veterans Appreciation Week this and waved. Our ceremony started with and an American flag lapel year my unit arranged a visit to a local the Color Guard, the National Anthem pin. Tears came from their retirement center where forty eight Vet- and the Pledge of Allegiance. Our Unit eyes as they thanked us. erans live. Commander spoke a few words thank- We then enjoyed listen- We decided to have a party to help them ing the Veterans for their service and ing to their stories over celebrate Veterans Day. As the Veterans described the Young Marines program. refreshments. Following the Footsteps and Career of a Great Warrior

By CPL Hayden Lippincott U.S. Air Force, Buster worked those in U.S. Air Force Special Operations. East Valley (AZ) at Bath Iron works in Bath, In 2010, Buster was awarded numerous SMSgt Charles E. “Buster” Donnel, USAF Maine, building ships for the medals and awards spanning his service (Ret) [1921 - 2013], my great-grandfather, U.S. Navy for another twen- from 1937 through 1964, including the was born in Lewiston, ty-plus years, then taking Distinguished Service Medal, two Bronze Maine, on March 17, part-time work at Brunswick Stars, a Purple Heart, the Combat Infan- 1921. Naval Air Station in Bruns- tryman’s Badge and multiple Campaign He was best known for wick, Maine. In the late 80’s, he finally and Battle ribbons for his service during being an original mem- fully retired to the Bob Hope Enlisted Re- World War II and the Korean War. ber of the famous Mer- tirement Village located outside Eglin Air A true patriot, my great-grandfather will rill’s Marauders, who Force Base near Shalimar, Florida. be missed by many, as he passed away fought behind enemy SMSgt Donnel was loved by everyone last August. Active duty and World War II lines in Burma during he came in contact with. He served as an Veterans invited me to honor the Senior World War II. advisor, mentor, story-teller and “adopted Master Sergeant at his interment service. Buster Donnel was wounded in combat, grandfather” to many active duty military I was invited as an honorary participant and was tagged to be sent away from the and veterans alike in the Shalimar area. in the color guard ceremony, with active front for medical treatment. He tore his He enjoyed having our young warriors duty Army Rangers and U.S. Air Force tag off and went back to the front. His around him, telling stories, and their Special Operations personnel. service in both the U.S. Army Air Force seeking his advice. His second family was Farewell “Buster”‚ Semper Fi ‚ OORAH! and later, the U.S. Air Force, was from our military, and he had a special place in A few of my great 1937 to 1964. After retiring from the his heart for the U.S. Army Rangers and grandfather’s medals. Page 22 | ESPRIT Westover (MA) Young Ma- rines in front of the Veterans Memorial, after spending a Westover Young Marines also marched in the Veterans Day Saturday morning re-flagging parade in Westfield, MA, along with members of the West- St. Thomas Cemetery in West field River Valley Marine Corps League. In the picture, wear- Springfield, MA for Veterans ing dress blues, is Cpl. Don Dorrington, an Iwo Jima veteran. Day. They helped re-flag more Mr. Dorrington is 88 years old and marches with the Marine than 500 cemetery plots. Corps League and Westover Young Marines every Memorial -- Submitted by Edward Mitrook Day and Veterans day. -- Submitted by Edward Mitrook

I participated in four Veterans Day ceremonies. Two of them were at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Purcellville, VA, where I participated in the color guard. For another one, I went to the Ball’s Bluff Civil War Cemetery for a ceremony with the VFW of Leesburg, VA. The last one was in Lovettsville, where I carried the wreath with another Young Marine for their special ceremony. I am glad that I could show my appreciation for the veterans who have served us. -- Submitted by YM PVT Noah Esper, Col Wesley Fox (VA)

A Color Guard for the Paralyzed Veterans of America By Stacy Anderson throughout the year. Foothills (CO) It wasn’t until after On Saturday Nov 9th, 2013, Foothills the ceremony that Young Marines performed a color guard we were made aware ceremony for the Paralyzed Veterans of that Congressmen Ed America Mountain States Chapter, at their Perlmutter and Mike annual awards banquet. Another organi- Coffman had also zation cancelled unexpectedy and we witnessed our per- gladly accepted. It was a busy Veterans formance. Day weekend filled with many color guard started to watch as the room filled with After the banquet events but guests. It quickly became apparent that we had time to visit we knew this color guard would challenge our with the veterans, share some laughs and this one was skills to make it flow in the space- pro take pictures. It was truly such an honor special. vided. to be there. I was so proud to show off When we The aisle was off-center and the room our Young Marines to a crowd that could arrived, we was filled with Veterans and those on Ac- appreciate their dedication to getting the set up our tive Duty. They were at the banquet in job done right. gear and appreciation of their community service Remembering Another Group of America’s Veterans By YM Pvt Caleb Van Apeldoorn the POW/MIA flag with the Patriot Guard. pact on my life. This solider had suffered Capital City (NC) The POW/MIA flag burns to his entire face and ears. Even go- Shortly after graduating recruit train- represents the pris- ing through what he had in this time of ing, I had the opportunity to spend two oners of war and war, he was still very proud to serve in the weeks with my father, Master Sergeant those who are miss- Army and had no regrets. This impressed B. Van Apeldoorn (Ret), who is a Vietnam ing in action. Being a me a lot, and made me proud to be part Veteran. During my visit to Rochester, NY part of the ceremony of a country that stands up for what its on Saturday afternoon July 27 2013, I gave me a better understanding of what beliefs. Seeing this ceremony reminded had the honor to be a part of a Wounded the men and women of our military go me to be thankful for everything I have, Warriors ceremony. endure and just how important their sac- and for the men and women who lay It took to place to honor three warriors rifices are to my way of life and my free- down their lives for us every day. I only who had been wounded while serving in dom. During the ceremony, there was one hope to be as brave and strong as these Afghanistan. During the ceremony I held soldier in particular who made an im- men who were honored that day.

ESPRIT | Page 23 Veterans Week 2013 War Memorials: Much More Than Just Monuments By YM Cpl Melody Conde names more than 6,000 Colorado men Foothills (CO) and women who have died in wars since Just before Veterans Day, we learned 1876. We also learned about the National about War Memorials in a class at Young War Memorials in Washington DC. The Marines. We learned how people submit National World War II Memorial includes their ideas for a memorial, and how a de- two engraved “Kilroy was here” images, sign gets chosen. which was a popular graffiti symbol on Many monuments take years to build, abandoned buildings during World War II. sometimes in excess of ten years. Many The information in the class amazed and use symbols to represent victory or free- affected me. I now see that war memori- dom: For example, WWII memorials often als are much more than just monuments. include an image from the Victory medal They tell veterans and the families of of the Greek goddess Nike holding a bro- the dead and missing that they are still ken sword to represent victory. remembered. Their sacrifices are known We looked at local memorials like the and are very greatly appreciated. Colorado Freedom Memorial which Two Veterans I’ve Met Whose Lives Define Patriotism By YM PFC Jacob Massengill Instead of cowering away, he warned the Air Force Base. Transferring to an admin- Southeast County (CA) few who didn’t know what was happen- istrative position after the Air Force re- Patriotism [PEY-tree-uh-tiz-uhm]: De- ing and assisted another sailor by load- tired crash boats (a type of high-speed voted love support, and defense of one’s ing a mounted 4-inch rapid fire gun; their offshore rescue boat) he served in Izmir, country; national loyalty. This is one defi- efforts downed three enemy planes. Turkey, and at the Pentagon, where he nition of patriotism, but I think it means Jay Groff is also a Pearl Harbor survivor. worked for the Secretary of the Air Force. more. He was jolted awake by a huge explosion. If anyone knows what patriotism means, Captain Douglas G. Phillips (USN, Ret) re- He defended two American B-17 heavy these two men do. You can ask anyone minds me of patriotism. Captain Phillips bombers that were attempting a landing, from the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air was stationed on the USS Ramsay during and continued fighting for the rest of the Force or Coast Guard and they would all the attack on Pearl Harbor on December attacks. After Pearl Harbor, he served our agree that these men are two outstand- 7th, 1941. country for thirty more years. ing examples of a patriot, and that they He told me of watching the beautiful He became a Boat Master Marine Su- would probably do the same if they had scenery from the ship’s deck that morn- perintendent and later served at Brook- to protect their country from attack. ing when he first saw a Japanese plane. ley Field, Johnston Island and Hamilton The Grand Opening of a Veteran-Owned Business

By Stacy Anderson Marines performed color guard duties on Foothills (CO) Veterans Day for the Grand Opening of a Veterans Day can be a great day for a local Quiznos Sandwich Restaurant. veteran to get a free hair cut, cup of coffee The owner is a veteran and he offered a or sometimes, lunch. For one local veter- free lunch to his fellow veterans. It was an, it was a day to write a new chapter by a beautiful Colorado day, perfect for the opening his own business. Foothills Young Flag, old friends and good food.

Page 24 | ESPRIT Veterans Week 2013 “ ...I Figured Out How and Why They Attend”

By YM GySgt Brenden snowing, raining, or in the mid- Quinonez, YM LCpl Harley dle of great winds. Bradford and As I spoke with them, I noticed YM PFC Denver Bradford that they ranged from an E-1 to Foothills (CO) a Colonel in rank. At school, many kids ask me if That moment, I figured out I am going to join the military. how and why they attend. I had I always reply with a sub- no need to ask them why they tle ”Yes” and that question came, for I knew by the look in is always followed by the their faces when the announc- question‚“Why?”. er had talked about the men Before Veterans Day in 2013, I that had fallen in combat. To- had no simple answer to that day my answer is clear: I wish question. Marine Corps and the other one was the to serve my country, not for On that day, I stood in the low winds of flag of the United States. glory, but for honor. a grassy field. That field was part of the The memorial also contained flags of As I am determined to serve my coun- United States Marine Corps Memorial. the fifty states and Marine Corps regi- try, I can start now by being an honorable In the center of the grassy field, there mental flags, all the size of post flags. Young Marine. stood two massive flags. The people there amazed me, for they One was the flag of the United States attended every year, whether it had been In Memory of the 241: They Came in Peace By YM PFC Logan Bera Memorial was built in Jacksonville, North these men and women hadn’t risked and New River (NC) Carolina. My unit, the New River Young given their lives, would there be a United On October 23, 1983, a bombing oc- Marines, attended a history class on the States? curred at the MNF (Multinational Force) Beirut bombing taught at the Beirut Me- I often think about the men and women barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. morial. who make sacrifices for our freedom and The death toll was the highest single I have only been to the Memorial once those who have already sacrificed for our day death toll for the United States Ma- with the Young Marines, but I learned a country, and I find myself stopping to rine Corps since the Battle of Iwo Jima in lot from my visit. salute them as my own small gesture of World War II. The day of the Beirut Bombing is a spe- thanks. The numbers are devastatingly high; the cial day to me because it makes me think Young Marines is always fun and I enjoy bombing killed 3 soldiers, 18 sailors, and how different life would be without the attending the ceremonies and events, be- 220 Marines, a total of 241 American ser- freedom to be myself and be in the Young cause I learn so much and I have made a vicemen. Marines. lot of friends in the Young Marines. In honor of those who died, The Beirut It also makes me think that if all of Boston’s Semper Fi Luncheon: What a Way to Celebrate! By YM SSgt Brian Fagan ter. Not only was there a great lunch, but Blackstone Valley (MA) there were all sorts of heroic people and I have been to a few Semper Fi Lun- great leaders there. cheons in Boston over the last few years. I had the chance to meet Harvey C. My father usually takes me. But this year’s “Barney” Barnum, a Congressional Medal lunch was amazing. It is a pretty big event of Honor recipient and General James F. with a hundreds people coming from Amos, the Marine Corps Commandant. around the country to attend. What an honor! As soon as we got there, I knew this I heard some great speeches and was year’s event was going to be the best one totally surprised to see our Young Marines yet. When we walked into the banquet National Executive Director, Mike Kessler, area, there it was... the World Series Cham- at the luncheon. We had a chance to speak pionship Trophy! The Boston Red Sox sent a while (I think he was equally surprised the trophy over for all the Marines and to see one of his Young Marines at the their guests to see. It was cool to be so lunch). It was a great way to celebrate the close to it and to have my picture taken Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day! Medal of Honor recipient Barney Barnum alongside it. But the day got even bet- Semper Fi! with Young Marine Brian Fagan.

ESPRIT | Page 25 Veterans Week 2013 Honor Flights: Some of the Ways Our Units Get Involved By YM Sgt Patrick Alford 1,700 people in the hallway to greet Lt Alexander Bonnyman(TN) these men and women to whom we owe Despite the government shutdown and so much. As I guided veteran Cal Kirkland closure of the veterans’ memorials in through the procession, I don’t think one Washington, DC, on October 9th, 2013, the person missed shaking his hand or thank- 15th Knoxville HonorAir flight ing him. It was humbling for East Tennessee Veterans to be in the presence of proceeded as scheduled Mr. Kirkland and other men Knoxville HonorAir is dedi- and women who fought so cated to honoring East Ten- bravely for our freedom. nessee World War II and Ko- I also got to meet his Shenandoah Valley, Battlefield, and rean War veterans for their family who very graciously Manassas Young Marines all come to- sacrifices on behalf of our thanked ME for what I did. gether to provide the Color Guard for freedoms. Twice a year, they I was honored to do that for the Austin, TX Honor Flight. Pictured fly a planeload of veterans him and I certainly did not are PFC Jeziorowski and PFC Buck of to Washington DC to visit the expect to receive a thank Shenandoah Valley Young Marines. war memorials built in their you. -- Submitted by Gwynn Harrison honor. It is a one-day event It makes me feel so proud Shenandoah Valley (VA) where they leave early in the to be a Young Marine. Our morning and return that same leaders tell us when we are Our unit held a fund raising car evening. in uniform we represent wash with all proceeds going to ben- I had the privilege of going all Young Marines and to efit Honor Flights. Matching our funds to greet their return flight always remember our core were the Marine Corps League, Vet- that evening. Pvt Russell and values. erans of Foreign Wars and the VFW I were taken to the entrance I think that is one way we Auxillary. The funds totaled $1,200. where we were given the can honor our veterans ev- Receiving a letter of appreciation for honor to assist the veterans ery day, by embracing the the unit from Honor Flight were YM in wheel chairs down the pro- life they have fought to give Pvts Cody Marvin and Zack Chiia. cession line. us with Discipline, Leader- -- Submitted by Tony Guillory McGhee Tyson airport in ship, and Teamwork. Rogue Valley (OR) Knoxville is not a large airport but there were an estimated

Pensacola Presents a WWII Veteran with a Quilt of Valor

By YM LCpl Nicholas Morrell mony and we gladly raised our hands. He nior Mr. VanOstenbridge described as Pensacola (FL) chose YM PVT Cole and YM LCpl Lewis to “very beautiful”. November 2, 2013, started out as a read a description of the event. Then he Everybody got a good look at the mag- normal day for my fellow Young Marines chose YM LCpl Moye and me to present nificent quilt provided by Quilts of Valor, and me. We started off with a physical the quilt. an organization begun during the Civil fitness test (PFT), then changed into our We started off the ceremony with a War that hand makes quilts for war vet- uniforms, listened to a drug demand re- reading and then Doc VanOstenbridge erans. The Young Marines of Pensacola duction (DDR) class, and then had drill talked about the war vet- and Mr. VanOstenbridge practice. eran, who turned out to be assembled for a group After we got finished with dril, we ex- his dad. His father wrote picture. Some of the pected our usual debrief of future events, about landing at Omaha Young Marines returned but something else happened instead. beach a week after the D- back to their seats We walked into the classroom and saw a Day landings, and his job while others asked Mr. table with what appeared to be portrait during World War II, which VanOstenbridge ques- of a World War II soldier and a number was working with anti- tions about his own ex- of medals on it, too. We looked at it with aircraft guns. He described being a part periences during the war. I believe the curiosity and then we all sat down and of General Patton’s 3rd Army, and what it Young Marines of Pensacola learned waited for instructions. was like to survive battles during World from this ceremony to always honor and Doc VanOstenbridge, one of our staff War II. value our war veterans, because without members, first explained what was about Then after his wonderful description them we wouldn’t have our freedoms to happen, what the ceremony was and of his father’s experiences, YM LCpl Moye that we enjoy today. then asked for volunteers for the cere- and I presented the quilt which the se-

Page 26 | ESPRIT Delivering The Message: Every significant national Young Marines activity in 2013 was picked up in national, regional and local media in both broadcast and print. By Gary Weisbaum greater and more significant attention to the Young Marines at Chief Marketing Officer both the national as well as the unit level. Our major activities As I am sure everyone has seen by now, the Young Marines HQ including the Iwo Jima trip, the Navajo Code talkers event, staff have invested significant time and resources to increase the Pearl Harbor anniversary event (our 2013 participation is the national and local visibility and awareness of the Young featured in this issue ) and all of your efforts 365 days a year Marines organization overall and the “very special” work the to honor all veterans will receive even greater coverage and over 11,000 Young Marines and 3,000 plus adult volunteers do exposure in 2014. every day across the United States. This, plus your critical and impor- I am pleased to report that these tant efforts to Reduce the Demand efforts have not only provided the As the new year gets for Drugs in this country will bring desired results, but in fact have more eyes and ears to the Young exceeded even our own expecta- started, plans are in place Marines “very special” story. Plus tions. Every significant national for this year, our relationship with Young Marines activity in 2013 was to bring even greater IZOD IndyCar, Indy Lights driver picked up in national, regional and Zach Veach will be front and cen- local media in both broadcast and and more significant ter in our communication efforts. print. Now to be clear, not every ac- Finally, I wanted to let you know tivity was picked up in every market attention to the that our efforts in 2014 will not across all available media however be just at the “national” level. This the Young Marines were recognized Young Marines at both the year, we are happy to announce in markets across the country for that we have reassigned Janelle their work with veterans, and with national as well as the Johnson to take on the assign- reducing demand for drugs. And I ment of Unit Marketing Manager. am happy to let you know that we unit level. This new position in the Young are “only getting started!” Marines HQ Marketing operation For 2014, Young Marines market- will provide all of our Young Ma- ing and communication activities will move to an even higher rine units guideance and assistance in capitalizing on media, level with expanded press releases and public relations efforts fundraising, and communication within your local markets, by our public relations agency, GRPR. Our efforts to increase where the need to “get the word out” in an effective manner the content, information and “search” capabilities available on is so critical. In the next 6-8 weeks, Janelle will be reaching our www.youngmarines.com website will be greatly enhanced out to all of our Division leadership and units to identify spe- and watch for a new look tied to our Young Marines brand plan cific programs that have worked well, those that were great roll out early in 2014. In fact, if you have not noticed it already, ideas but did not achieve the desired outcome, and the spe- this edition of the Esprit Magazine has also incorporated im- cific needs of our units from a marketing and communication portant elements of the Young Marines brand plan. standpoint. The goal, a “Best Practices” program for our units As many of you already know, it is critical for communication to be successful in all of your marketing and communication to have consistent looks and messages from an organization needs. and its affiliates ( units in our specific case ) and our efforts to I look forward to keeping you updated on our efforts and get this accomplished are well underway . progress and am honored to be a part of a group with such As the new year gets started, plans are in place to bring even “outstanding” participants.

ESPRIT | Page 27 Young Marines After Action

Ashtabula County assisted Ashtabula County (OH): Northern Kentucky: Celebrity Scooper Northeastern Ohio’s Marine Corps League Detachment Night at Bruster’s Ice Cream with #782 in a massive toy sorting, under the direction of XO David Byrd and National Pam Laughlin -- Submitted by Alicen Limestoll, Young Marine of the Year Adutant, Ashtabula County Young Marines SgtMaj Dakota Richter.

Northern Kentucky: Young Marines Staff having a little fun after Recruit Graduation. Left to right: YM Cpl Nathan Byrd, YM LCpl Ian Franzen, YM Cpl Liam Galloway, YM Sgt Drew Hensley, YM Cpl Chris Gruner, YM SSgt Diante Bethay, NYMOY YM SgtMaj Dakota Richter and YM Sgt Steven Hoxmeier. Plus, Some Scenes from Swansboro’s (Busy) Summer

Attending the dedication of the SSgt Reckless Memorial at The National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, VA

The Swansboro (NC) Young Marines white water rafting in West Virginia.

Lending a hand as volunteers at Marching in the morning parade at the Annual the Crystal Coast Paddlefest. Swansboro Mullet Festival. At a flag retirement ceremony at the local VFW.

Page 28 | ESPRIT Graduations and Special Achievements

Congratulations to all our new Young Marines and to all those who taught and nurtured them. Good work!

Unit: Tornado Alley (KS) Unit: Northern Kentucky Thanks from a YM Parent Date: September 17 Date: November 17 I’m writing to say how much Young Marines has UC: Michael Weber UC: Lynne Arnold helped my family. I learned about the Young Ma- Honor grad: Bryce Becker Honor grads: Reece Keller, Jared Darpel rine program around spring of 2012 and my oldest son Kyle joined in August of 2012. By the time he Unit: Southwest Michigan finished recruit training, he was doing so much bet- Date: September 18 Unit: Rutherford County (TN) ter in school. Kyle learned a lot in this last year of UC: Not specified Date: December 15 Young Marines, such as fire prevention, cooking and Honor grad: Zackary Decker UC: David Assfalg Honor grad: Anna C. Tuma survival on encampments, marching in parades and his favorite event, the Golden Gate Encampment. Unit: Speedway (IN) Then in August of 2013, my middle son Anthony Date: September 30 Unit: Elizabethtown (PA) joined Young Marines. Anthony has just graduated UC: David Hulett Date: Not specified from recruit training. Honor grad: Sydney Sims UC: Michele Keener Honor grad: Coco Ward I want to sincerely thank John Fitzgerald (Com- manding Officer) and all of his staff for playing a Unit: Eagle (CA) huge roll in both of my son’s successes, both per- Date: October 5 Unit: Emerald Coast (FL) sonally and academically. This is an awesome unit UC: Patti Siegmann Date: Not specified and I recommend it to all my friends and family. Honor grad: Not specified UC: Lynn Dominique Honor grad: Reece Keller Nicole Bara Foothills (CO) Parent Unit: Calvert County (MD) Date: October 13 Unit: Pyramid Rock (HI) UC: Rob Willis Date: Not specified Honor grad: Not specified UC: John DiGiovanni Honor grad: Emilio Novillo Unit: Keystone (PA) Date: October 17 UC: Paul T. Kirsch Honor grad: John O’Rourke

Unit: Shiawasse County (MI) Date: October 19 UC: David Assfalg Honor grad: Eric Cunningham Perfect Physical Fitness Test (PFT) YM LCpl NAME Cantwell Emerald Coast (FL) YM LCpl Ethan Lundy Pensacola (FL) YM MGySgt Alex Loria Col Wesley Fox (VA) YM Pfc Jonathan Craig Northern Kentucky YM PVT Josef Viramontes Rutherford County (TN) Anthony and Kyle Allen YM SSgt Brian Booker Rutherford County (TN) “If I Can Accomplish This, SO CAN YOU!” Dear Esprit, tled a few injuries. Tennessee and others were a part of a I have just completed my 8th straight It would have been healthy competition in my unit, as we perfect PFT! easy to feel sorry for push each other towards our new per- I would not have been able to overcome myself and quit, but sonal bests. my injuries and achieve this goal without the values I have So, to the Young Marines in my unit and the support of my unit and other fellow learned in this pro- others, we stand behind you with encour- Young Marines. gram have pushed agement. If I can accomplish this, SO CAN At my JLS in Dallas, Texas I received a me through the pain YOU! 499 physical fitness score. After that, I and all the way to 8 Semper Fi, was determined not to fall short again. straight 500s on my YM GySgt Logan Hankerson As a long distance runner, I have bat- PFTs, one being in my SLS in Smyrna, Tarrant County (TX)

ESPRIT | Page 29 SCHEDULE 2014 STREETS | ROADS | OVALS ST. PETERSBURG BARBER TORONTO MILWAUKEE STREET ROAD COURSE STREET OVAL MARCH 30 APRIL 26 & 27 JULY 20 AUGUST 17 ST. PETERSBURG, FLA. BIRMINGHAM, ALA. TORONTO, ONTARIO MILWAUKEE, WIS. LONG BEACH INDIANAPOLIS MID-OHIO SONOMA STREET ROAD COURSE ROAD ROAD COURSE APRIL 13 MAY 9 & 10 AUGUST 2&3 AUGUST 23 & 24 LONG BEACH, CALIF. INDIANAPOLIS, IND. LEXINGTON, OHIO SONOMA, CALIF.